When your smartphone’s screen cracks, the battery fails or the camera breaks, do you repair your phone or do you opt to replace it? If fixing a phone seems all too hard, or just not worth it, you, unfortunately, might be right when it comes to specific models or types of repairs.
Some experts have taken a look at some of the best and worst phones for getting repaired. And if you want a phone that will serve you for several years, read on to discover the features that you should go for when choosing between repairing and replacing a phone.
Phones break but they can be fixed.
There are many ways you can break your phone, but most the common are dropping it in the water or cracking the screen. Sometimes, it can be an easy fix for either of these problems but other times, there can be more severe damage, like water damaging the batteries.
Read here about 5 tips to avoid cracking your phone screen
Replacing your phone every time there is a minor problem is not a solution and can be expensive. Cracked screens and failing batteries can often be fixed quickly and for a cost that is a fraction of what you would pay for a new phone.
Some people wait a week to repair their broken phone. Most of the time, they try to scrape by with whatever cracks they have gotten on their screen or battery problems they are experiencing. But what happens, in the end, is that it soon becomes too difficult to use the phone properly.
They also not want to wait to fix their phones, and instead they go and buy a new one. Also, many people believe that many common fixes, like replacing a crack screen or a battery, can be repaired within 20–30 minutes.
Is your phone usable?
When your phone is so old that you can’t use it, then it’s time to replace it with a new one. Even if you’re entirely attached to your old phone, start deciding which phone you want to own next. There is no use for phone that is not working as it should. Your phone should make your life easier, rather than harder.
How much will it cost?
Always consider the cost of repairing. If the value of repairing your phone exceeds the price of a new phone, then it is better to buy a replacement.
A minor repair like a screen crack or a button not working is worth repairing. However, multiple software or hardware issues might warrant the decision to buy a new phone. It would be more comfortable, convenient and less time consuming to start with a new model.
How long will it take?
Before getting your phone repair, check how much time it will take to fix your phone. Then think about how much time it would take to set up a new device, like reinstalling all your apps and data. If it’s only going to take 20–30 minutes to fix your phone, then it’s worth waiting instead of getting a new one, as it’s probably more efficient to go ahead and fix it.
In general, people say that repairing option is more efficient and cost effective. In terms of money, the most common fixes are way cheaper than replacing the device or purchasing a new one.
Will the repairs affect the life or operation of the phone?
The older the phone, the more expensive repair. This often translates into higher maintenance costs. If you continue to repair the phone, it will give you less and less for your investment. You may consider replacing an old part with a new piece with the latest technology that will give your phone better efficiency and longevity.
Is the phone on a warranty?
Check whether your phone has any warranty or not. You may be able to find this out by speaking with the retailer who sold you the phone. Find out how you can claim this warranty if the phone does start to not work. Check if the warranty specifies anything about repairs or replacing parts or the phone entirely.
Is your phone running out of storage?
Your phones carry essential files, photos, videos and applications. Having little storage space on your device can irritate you as you have to delete or move files from your phone regularly. Thankfully, nowadays, most of the smartphones have more storage space to fit what’s required.
However, if you still find that your phone is running out of space, you don’t have to buy a brand-new phone. You can easily buy a new memory card to enhance your phone’s storage capabilities to give you the extra space you need. You can also look at using online or cloud storage.
Final thoughts:
You might be surprised to find that in the majority of instances, repair time is significantly shorter than getting a new phone. If you can’t wait to get it to repaired however, then you may need to buy a replacement instead.
